How To Read A Window Sticker

(photo courtesy of Edmunds.com)

If you've been on the hunt for a new car or have visited our Lakewood Toyota dealership recently, then you've probably seen stickers in the windows of the vehicles located on our lot. Sometimes referred to as a Monroney sticker, this piece of paper is filled with vehicle information that can help put the whole car-buying process into perspective and impact your purchasing decisions.

While different dealerships orient their car window stickers differently, each sticker is legally required to contain the same information. Some of the most vital information auto shoppers will find on a window sticker include:

Model Information: On this first part of the window sticker you'll find the most basic information about the vehicle such as the make, model, year, engine configuration, interior and exterior color, as well as its vehicle identification number.

Standard & Optional Equipment: Typically found on the left side of the sticker is a thorough breakdown of the model's standard features that are included in the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP). This list includes everything from tire size and braking systems, to basic and advanced safety features such as seatbelts and lane keep assist. Window stickers also provide information on any additional features that may come include with the specific make and model you're looking at, and inform you if they're included in a special package or bundle.

Warranty Information: This section shows the specific warranty information for the vehicle, including bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranties, roadside assistance packages, and any other manufacturer's offers that pertain to the particular make and model.

Total Price: Arguably the area that auto shoppers pay the most attention to, this part of the window sticker displays the total MSRP for the vehicle. This is not always the final price you will pay, but can provide a good starting point for negotiation. Many dealerships offer incentives and specials, so if you're shopping for a new ride in Lakewood, feel free to take advantage of our new Toyota specials to score the right car at a great price!

Fuel Economy & Safety Ratings: The last major items listed on a window sticker is the vehicle's fuel economy and safety ratings. Sometimes referred to as an EPA label, the fuel economy label provides you with an estimate of the vehicle's fuel efficiency, broken down into both city and highway mpg. Also listed on the sticker is the vehicle's safety ratings. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a number of new cars every year and issues them safety ratings based how well a vehicle performs in various crash tests. All of these tests are typically average together and an overall vehicle score based on the NHTSA's 5-Star safety rating system is displayed on the window sticker.

Find Your Next Ride at Toyota World of Lakewood

Once you're able to read and understand a car window sticker, you'll be a more informed auto shopper when it comes time to purchase a new or new to you car. For more information on window stickers or to learn more about our inventory of capable Toyota models, feel free to contact us at Toyota World of Lakewood.